India successfully tests indigenous UAV-Launched missile ULPGM-V3 in Andhra Pradesh

In a significant milestone for India's defence modernisation efforts, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3.

The test took place on Friday at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the breakthrough via social media platform X, stating: “In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities, @DRDO_India has successfully carried out flight trials of UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the NOAR test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Congratulations to DRDO and its industry partners, DcPPs, MSMEs and start-ups for this achievement. This success proves that the Indian industry is now ready to absorb and produce critical defence technologies.”

Although full specifications of the ULPGM-V3 remain classified, the missile is believed to include upgrades such as imaging infrared (IIR) seekers and dual-thrust propulsion systems. These advanced features were first showcased as part of an evolving unmanned strike capability during Aero India 2025.

The ULPGM system is designed to be lightweight and compatible with multiple aerial platforms, enhancing operational flexibility in complex combat scenarios.

The missile’s evolution from the earlier ULPGM-V2 variant — developed by DRDO’s Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) — indicates a steady shift toward sophisticated, precision-guided munitions.

The choice of NOAR for this trial is aligned with DRDO’s growing reliance on the facility for validating high-end military technologies.

In recent months, the range has hosted successful trials of directed energy weapons capable of neutralising UAVs and swarm drones.

This successful test marks another leap towards India’s goal of achieving strategic self-reliance in critical defence systems.